May 31, 2016 Reading Time: 2 minutes
Sri Lanka invited to the World Islamic Economic Forum in Indonesia. Image credit - milosk50 /depositphotos
Reading Time: 2 min read
EU expands cooperation with Sri Lanka
At the EU-Sri Lanka Working Group on Cooperation, the EU agreed to expand its development strategy for Sri Lanka over the next four years.
The EU pledged its support towards reconciliation and good governance in Sri Lanka, and will continue to support rural development and global issues such as climate change.
Japanese investors show interest in Sri Lanka
Japanese investors have expressed a strong interest in Sri Lanka’s potential for investment opportunities at the G7 summit.
The Taisei Corporation has expressed an interest in investing in highway construction, expanding the Bandaranaike International Airport, and building a monorail. The Hitachi Corporation has shown interest in constructing a monorail, and implementing projects in the water treatment, infrastructure, energy, and IT sectors.
Sri Lanka invited to the World Islamic Economic Forum
The Chairman of the World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF) Foundation, Tun Musa Hitam, has invited Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe to participate in the 12th WIEF conference in Jakarta, Indonesia. This is the first time Sri Lanka has been invited to the event.
The WIEF will provide a platform for Sri Lankan business representatives to discuss the potential of sukuk for infrastructure financing, Islamic finance, the global halal food industry, and the global modest fashion industry.
Ex-leader of Chad sentenced to life
The former President of Chad, Hissène Habré, was found guilty of crimes against humanity, summary execution, torture, and rape. The former leader, who has been described as Africa’s Pinochet, was sentenced to life in prison by the courts in Senegal.
This is the first time a former head of state has been convicted of crimes against humanity by a court of another country. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights welcomed the verdict.
North Korea attempts missile launch
North Korea has attempted to fire a medium-range Musudan ballistic missile from its east coast. According to the South Korean military, the launch appeared to be unsuccessful.
North Korea has never successfully launched any medium-range missiles, which are believed to be capable of hitting South Korea and Japan.
UNSC extends mission in Somalia
The UN Security Council (UNSC) has extended the African Union Mission in Somalia until 8 July 2016.
The extension would allow adequate time for the UNSC to consider the outcome of its recent visit to the country. The Council also welcomed the elections scheduled for August 2016 and urged the country to legalize its electoral model as soon as possible.
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